Thursday, May 27, 2021

White Sox make 4 roster moves ahead of series against Baltimore Orioles

The White Sox made four roster moves Thursday afternoon in advance of a four-game weekend series against the Baltimore Orioles:

  • Pitcher Michael Kopech was placed on the bereavement list. He must remain on that list for a minimum of three days, but not more than seven days.
  • Reliever Ryan Burr's contract was purchased from Triple-A Charlotte.
  • Outfielder Luis Robert (strained hip flexor) was transferred to the 60-day injured list.
  • Reliever Jace Fry (back surgery) was sent on a rehabilitation assignment to Triple-A Charlotte.

Kopech left Wednesday's game with left hamstring soreness, so from that perspective, at least he wasn't placed on the injured list. Given that the Sox have a doubleheader scheduled Monday against Cleveland, Kopech was unlikely to pitch before then -- he typically makes a spot start when the Sox have a doubleheader. We'll see whether he's healthy enough to make that start. 

Burr takes Robert's place on the 40-man roster. He pitched for the Sox in 2018 and 2019. The right-hander had Tommy John surgery in 2019 and missed all of 2020. In 24 career games with the Sox, he's 1-1 with a 5.52 ERA.

If and when Fry is ready to rejoin the Sox, it will be interesting to see who gets sent to the minors. Jose Ruiz has struggled as of late -- he's given up runs in six consecutive outings -- but he's out of options. Matt Foster has also struggled this season, and could be pitching for his roster spot.

It's also possible Garrett Crochet will be sent to Triple-A to get more innings. The rookie left-hander has only appeared in 13 games this season, throwing 12.2 innings. I'm concerned the lack of activity is stunting the 21-year-old's development. If he's not going to pitch more in the majors, send him to Charlotte and let him improve his craft. He will be needed later in the season.

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